Beware of these scammers soliciting investments on Telegram, warns FSCA

The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa has issued a warning about scammers using the messaging app Telegram to solicit investments from unsuspecting South Africans. The regulator has identified two groups posing as legitimate companies on the platform – Sappi Online Investment and Mattercap Investments – both of which are deceiving users with promises of unrealistic returns.

Sappi Online Investment is using the FSP (Financial Services Provider) number belonging to Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd. The regulator has confirmed that Sappi Online is not authorized to provide financial services in South Africa, despite using a valid FSP number. Sanlam has also confirmed it has no connection with Sappi Online.

Mattercap Investments, an authorized financial services provider, has been impersonated by scammers on Telegram. The group administrators have not responded to FSCA inquiries, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the operation.

The FSCA advises South Africans to be vigilant when receiving unsolicited investment offers, particularly those made through social media platforms like Telegram. Key red flags to watch out for include promises of unrealistic returns, requests for upfront payments, requests for additional funds to recover investments, and pressure to act urgently. Additionally, vague information about the investment product should raise suspicions.

To protect themselves from falling victim to these scams, the regulator urges the public to exercise caution, avoid providing personal or financial information, and only engage with authorized financial service providers. The FSCA remains committed to protecting consumers and ensuring the integrity of South Africa's financial markets.